Zoe Saldaña Dethrones Scarlett Johansson As Hollywood'S Highest-Grossing Star

The Changing of the Guard: Johansson's Reign Ends

For ages, Scarlett Johansson has been the reigning champion of the box office, but a new queen has ascended the throne! This week, industry insiders were buzzing as updated figures revealed that Johansson's incredible streak as Hollywood’s highest-grossing actor has been eclipsed. The catalyst? None other than her Marvel buddy, Zoe Saldaña, who has cemented her place atop the highest-grossing actors list by surpassing the $15 billion mark.

Johansson’s dominance wasn't just a fluke. For a decade, her strategic choices and her role as Black Widow made her a powerhouse. Her films consistently shattered expectations, proving her as a rock-solid box office draw. But in the cutthroat world of Hollywood, records are made to be broken, and Saldaña's ascent is a testament to that.

“I am deeply grateful and profoundly humbled. May the next record breaker be another woman!” shared Saldaña, responding to her new achievement with grace and hope.

The Game Changer: Avatar's Triple Threat

What shook the Hollywood hierarchy? The colossal success of James Cameron’s Avatar: Fire and Ash. Released in late December 2025, this blockbuster didn’t just break records – it crushed them, raking in $1.23 billion globally. This boost was exactly what Saldaña needed to overtake Johansson, with her lifetime earnings standing at an eye-popping $15.47 billion.

Saldaña’s triumph isn't a stroke of luck. Known as the "Queen of the Franchise," she has starred in four films each grossing over $2 billion, including Avatar and Avengers hits. Her ability to anchor massive franchises while adding an emotional depth that resonates globally makes her a unique force in Hollywood.

The Future: Can Johansson Bounce Back?

Is Scarlett Johansson down for the count? Not quite. With her strategic pivot to high-concept blockbusters and leadership roles through her production company, the race is far from over. While her Black Widow chapter has closed, her development slate remains robust and ready for a comeback.

Industry watchers suggest that if Johansson aligns with a new blockbuster series, the top spot may see some back-and-forth action in the coming years. Yet, with more Avatar sequels on the horizon, Saldaña's lead seems unshakeable. Insiders speculate that by the end of Cameron's epic saga, she could be the first actor to cross $20 billion in earnings, rewriting the playbook for bankability in 2026.